Friday, June 15, 2012

The city of the lion story

Hundred of
years ago there was a powerful king called Sang Nila Utama. He lived in
Palembang in southern Sumatera and ruled the kingdoms of Sri Vijaya Empire.

One day, the
king decided to travel to the island of Bentang. When the ships were ready, he
and his followers set out. While they were at sea a fierce storm up: the wind
howled and the sea became very rough.

“Your
Majesty, it is dangerous to travel in such weather.” Said the captain of Sang
Nila Utama’s ship. “Tumasik island is nearby, and we could stay there until the
storm is over.”

The king
agreed, and so the ship left stormy sea and sailed into the safe and quite
harbor of Tumasik.

“Since we’re
here, we should have a look around,” said the king.

Sang Nila
Utama and his followers then left their ship to explore the island. It was
heavily wooded and had many beautiful flowers. As the man walked further from
the sea, Sang Nila Utama suddenly saw a fine large animal. Its body was as
snowy white. Larger than a goat, the animal moved quickly and soon disappeared
into the dark forest.

“What was
that?” asked the king, “I have never seen such a strange and wonderful animal.”

“It’s a
lion,” replied one of his followers.

“If the
animals here are as fine and as fierce as lions, this would be a good place to
start a new kingdom,” said the king.

“I agree,”
said a prince, “but I think we should re-name the island to mark your visit.

“Good idea,”
said Sang Nila Utama. “I think we should call it “Singapura”. City of the lion.